Formula One pledges 1 million euros to aid Emilia-Romagna flood relief efforts”

F1 Donates 1 Million Euros to Emilia-Romagna Flood Relief Fund

In a show of support for those affected by the recent flooding disaster in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, Formula 1 has donated 1 million euros (£867,000) to the relief fund. The funds will be managed and used by the region’s Agency for Territorial Safety and Civil Protection.

The decision comes after heavy rain caused fatalities and displaced thousands from their homes, leading to the cancellation of this weekend’s grand prix at Imola in north-eastern Italy.

In addition, F1 has also arranged for food that would have been used in hospitality during the event to be distributed among those in need via a group responsible for organizing food banks and distribution centers throughout affected areas.

Ferrari Joins F1 In Disaster Relief Efforts

The gesture from F1 was followed by Ferrari who also donated an equivalent amount toward disaster relief efforts. Ferrari’s Maranello factory is situated within Emilia-Romagna.

“The situation facing the communities in the region is terrible but I know that resilience and passion of people like so many across Italy will prevail through this crisis,” said Stefano Domenicali–President & CEO Formular One Group “We must do everything we can to support them at this difficult time.”

Domenicali grew up near Imola where he witnessed first-hand how devastating such natural calamities could be; hence his personal attachment as well as his professional responsibility towards the cause.

The Aftermath

According to Mayor Michele de Pascale, Ravenna–one of the worst affected towns in Emilia-Romagna region–has not witnessed a disaster on this scale since last century. The floods led to catastrophic damages costing people their homes and possessions while some even lost their lives.

After six months’ worth of rainfall was recorded within 36 hours, almost every river between Bologna and the northeastern coast flooded leading to at least 13 fatalities so far.

Solidarity Amongst Sports Fraternities

In times of calamity, sports fraternities have often come together with solidarity just like F1 & Ferrari are doing now. This move by F1 highlights an important aspect that goes beyond sporting events – humanity is above everything else.